How Did a US Figure Skater Overcome Tragedy to Reach the Olympics?

Maxim Naumov, a US figure skater whose parents tragically died in a plane crash last year, has achieved his dream of making the US Olympic team for the upcoming Milan Olympics. This milestone is particularly poignant as his parents, Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova, were world champions in pairs skating and had discussed his Olympic aspirations with him shortly before their untimely deaths.

Last updated: 05 February 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

Maxim Naumov's selection for the US figure skating team for the 2026 Winter Olympics marks a significant personal and professional achievement, particularly following the tragic loss of his parents in a plane crash. Naumov, who placed third at the US figure skating championships in St Louis, will now represent the United States among 16 other skaters in Milan. His journey is not only a testament to his talent but also a tribute to his parents' legacy in the sport.

Key takeaways

• Maxim Naumov has made the US Olympic team for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
• His parents, both former world champions in figure skating, died in a plane crash in January 2025.
• Naumov held a photo of himself with his parents during his recent competition, emphasising their ongoing influence in his life.

Timeline: how we got here

The events leading to Naumov's Olympic selection have been marked by both triumph and tragedy:

• January 2025: Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova die in a tragic plane crash in Washington DC.
• February 2025: Maxim Naumov begins his competitive season, dedicating performances to his parents.
• January 2026: Naumov competes at the US figure skating championships and secures a place on the Olympic team.
• 6 February 2026: The Olympic figure skating competition begins in Milan.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Naumov's recent podium finish at the US figure skating championships has solidified his place on the Olympic team, showcasing his resilience and dedication in the face of personal tragedy.

What was already established

Prior to these events, Naumov had expressed his desire to make the Olympic team, a dream that was shared with his parents before their passing. Their legacy as world champions adds a significant emotional weight to his journey.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

While the tragedy surrounding Naumov's family is deeply personal, it resonates with UK audiences who follow international sports and figure skating. The story underscores the emotional narratives often present in sports, drawing attention from fans worldwide.

Businesses and jobs

The figure skating community in the UK may honour Naumov's achievements, leading to increased interest in the sport and potential growth in local figure skating clubs and training programmes.

Policy and regulation

There may also be discussions around aviation safety regulations, particularly concerning commercial flights and their protocols when in proximity to military airspace, following the tragic incident that claimed Naumov's parents.

Numbers that matter

• 67: Total fatalities from the plane crash involving Naumov's parents.
• 28: Number of individuals connected to US figure skating on the flight.
• 3: Podium placings of Naumov at the US figure skating championships leading up to the Olympics.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Pairs figure skating: A discipline in figure skating where two skaters perform together, executing lifts and throws.
• Olympic team: A group of athletes representing their country at the Olympic Games.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the Winter Olympics approach, Naumov will likely focus on refining his routines while coping with the emotional weight of his parents' absence. Media attention will increase, highlighting his journey.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-Olympics, Naumov may engage in various public speaking opportunities, sharing his experiences and inspiring others in the figure skating community.

Signals to watch

• Performance outcomes at the Winter Olympics in Milan.
• Public engagements and interviews that reflect on his journey and the legacy of his parents.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support young athletes by attending local figure skating events and competitions.
• Engage with stories of resilience and dedication in sports.

Don’t

• Overlook the emotional narratives that athletes often bring to their performances.
• Ignore the importance of community support in the aftermath of tragedy.

Checklist

• Follow Maxim Naumov’s journey in the Winter Olympics.
• Share inspiring stories of athletes overcoming adversity.
• Engage with local skating communities to promote youth participation.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Naumov's journey is inspiring, the emotional impact of losing his parents is profound and may affect his performance in unpredictable ways. Additionally, discussions surrounding aviation safety regulations are ongoing, with no immediate changes announced after the crash.

Bottom line

Maxim Naumov’s selection for the Olympic team serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the enduring impact of family. As he prepares for the Winter Olympics, his journey resonates deeply within the sports community, inspiring many to find strength in adversity.

FAQs

What happened to Maxim Naumov's parents?

Vadim Naumov and Evgenia Shishkova tragically died in a plane crash in January 2025, when an American Airlines flight collided with a military helicopter.

When will the Olympic figure skating competition take place?

The Olympic figure skating competition will commence on 6 February 2026 in Milan.

How has Naumov honoured his parents in his skating career?

Naumov often dedicates his performances to his parents and carries their memory with him, highlighting their influence on his journey in figure skating.